Side braids are back

Kusum Kanojia, Sept 21, 2012

Gone are the days when braids were signs of nerdity. Often used to represent bookworm or not-so-stylish, braids are new ‘in’ thing among the B-town and Hollywood actors.

According to hair experts, braids are always in but its type changes from season to season. The hottest hair trend, this time, is the side braid. Once fashionable back in the 1980s and 1990s, this hairstyle has made a spectacular comeback, popular on runways and on celebrities.

From Priyanka Chopra to Bipasha Basu and Selena Gomez to Emma Watson, these beauties have been making style statement by flaunting their side braids both on and off screen. The fashion industry, world over, has too embraced side braid hairstyles with models walking on the ramp donning this new trend.

Sonali Bhambri, director, Toni & Guy salons, north India says in the year 2011 and 2012, side braids hairstyles are the hottest hair trend. “There are a host of options for those who want to experiment. One can go for the classic side braid, French style side braid, fish tail, corn rows, water fall braids or even peekaboo braid,” she says.

Side braids can be worn with any look and at any occasion. Messy yet chic braids also go well with Bohemian looks. They can even be coupled with gowns and dresses with ‘V’ shaped or broad necks. They also gel with casual jeans-tee look.

While side braid hairstyle are suitable for all types of looks and occasions, one has to keep in mind the shape of face before going for it. “The shape of face pivotal when choosing the hairstyle. Side braids look great on people with diamond, round or oval faces. French or fishtail braids that leave a tassel on the forehead look good on people with oblong and heart-shaped faces,” adds Sonali.

While it gives an opportunity to skip on the basic and boring ponytail, side braid is also perfect for those bad hair day and only takes few minutes to do. “It gives you such diversity to your look that you will never grow old of all the possibilities that hair braiding allows you for hairstyles. One braid is a nice touch, double braids look girlie and cute, and a head full of braids is attention getting and the mark of a strong woman,” adds Sonali. So, go ahead and make your pick!